Both in a thread here and one on the beta site we have gotten some lame answers from Alfred. They want to be able to reach out to ALL AWS members through the database and mainframe. But, they can already do that with mass mailings anytime they want. They will have a lower turnout actually using the forum than they currently do. Percentage wise, I don't care if you are talking politics, religion, school activities, or the work place, you always have the 10% that do 90% and 90% that pick up the rest of the 10% or somethings just don't get done because you can't depend on most people.
Look at our section meetings across the country. Overall, you don't get 10% of a sections membership to come to meetings, even one per year. Less than 2% of your membership comes to more than one meeting per year. Even section officers, how many make more than 4 meetings per year? I can tell because I used to be a section chairman and got the stats on section membership and I can tell when I look at pics in the Welding Journal how low attendance was, unless it's at a school and all the students are in the picture, cheaters. Most of them aren't even student members but the pic looked good.
Back on topic, if they think people are going to participate in the new forum...they flunked sociology. They haven't got a clue about human lack of participation. Most people, young and old, who get on the internet are there for video games, and oggling; no, not googling, they are looking at other things. They can't be bothered with something work related on their own time.
I give it six months. Any takers?
Brent
L,
